Energy company starts work on new $12M factory in Morocco, citing stability

CASABLANCA, Morocco – Multinational energy company Eaton has broken ground on a new $12 million electronics plant in Morocco that could signal increased foreign investment for this North African country.

Bulldozers broke ground Monday on the site near Casablanca's airport. The factory will export circuit breakers and telecommunications equipment around the region.

Industry Minister Hafid Alamy said it was a part of Morocco's strategy to attract foreign investment and create manufacturing clusters.

The president of Eaton's electrical sector, Frank Campbell, told The Associated Press that Morocco was chosen for its proximity to European and African markets and stability during the Arab Spring pro-democracy uprisings. He suggested that future expansion could follow if the investment goes well.

Canadian plane maker Bombardier in September announced plans for a $200 million factory in the same area.